211 helpline connects directly to community resources in San Mateo County

More than 7 million residents across the Bay Area now have access to the 211 helpline with the official launch of the service in San Mateo County this month. The 211 San Mateo County Steering Committee and United Way of the Bay Area host a celebration for the launch on 211 Day (Friday, February 11, or 2-11).

211 is an easy-to-remember, toll-free phone number that connects callers with local community services, such as food, shelter, counseling, employment assistance, quality child care, volunteer opportunities, and more.

San Mateo County is the final county in the Bay Area to receive 211 service, completing the 211 regional network, which now serves 12 counties. Last year, 211 assisted more than 218,000 Bay Area callers, up 6 percent from 2009. The service is confidential and available 24 hours a day in more than 150 languages.

211 is also an integral component of the county’s disaster-response infrastructure and will alleviate misuse of 911 for non-emergencies. During a disaster, 211 provides critical information about evacuation routes, food, shelter, and support with finding new jobs and permanent housing during long-term recovery.